Description
Master the art of Middle Eastern cuisine with this ultimate recipe for Beef Kafta Kebabs. These flavorful grilled kebabs combine ground beef with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and garlic, resulting in juicy, perfectly cooked kebabs that are easy to prepare and packed with classic Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Kafta Mixture
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium onion, very finely grated and excess liquid squeezed out
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Equipment
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Mix the Kafta: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion (with excess liquid squeezed out), minced garlic, chopped parsley, allspice, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix gently yet thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated without overmixing to preserve texture.
- Shape the Kebabs: Divide the mixture into equal portions. Using your hands, mold each portion around a skewer to form a long, flat kebab shape, compacting the meat firmly so it adheres well.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Kafta Kebabs: Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning once. Grill until the kebabs are nicely browned on the outside and cooked through to your preferred doneness.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the kebabs from heat and let them rest briefly to retain their juices before serving.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the kafta tender and juicy.
- If grilling is unavailable, these kebabs can be baked in a 400°F oven for 18 to 20 minutes.
- Alternatively, cook the kebabs in a skillet on the stovetop if grilling or baking is not an option.
